Expected Decision for Deadly Tusky Valley Bus Crash

In LICKING COUNTY, Ohio - a decision is expected soon in the trial concerning the Tusky Valley bus crash that tragically resulted in the death of six individuals. Jacob McDonald, a truck driver aged 61, is currently facing 26 charges, which include aggravated vehicular homicide. Opting for a bench trial, McDonald has chosen for Judge David Branstool to determine his fate instead of a jury. Judge Branstool has indicated that the verdict will likely be announced early next week, probably on Monday or Tuesday, and has assured the public that sufficient notice will be given before the announcement so they can be present in court. If found guilty on all felony charges, McDonald could potentially face over 31 years in prison. The judge’s task is to ascertain whether McDonald acted recklessly or negligently when his semi-truck collided with slowed traffic on I-70, resulting in a fatal bus crash and subsequent pile-up that claimed the lives of six individuals - including three students and three chaperones from Tusky Valley Middle-High School. The families of the victims have been present in court every day of the trial, which included testimony from 20 witnesses across three days last week. Prosecutors allege that McDonald was speeding, using his phone, and not paying attention at the time of the accident, while the defense argues that there is insufficient evidence to support these claims. Stay tuned to Fox 8 for the latest updates on this case as we anticipate the final verdict.